Henley-on-Thames has been accredited as a Walkers Are Welcome Town, the second town in Oxfordshire to achieve the status.

It has much to commend is as a destination for walkers. It is on two long-distance paths: the Thames Path national trail and the Oxfordshire Way, as well as the Chiltern Way Berkshire Loop and the Wokingham Way. It is on the edge of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is at the hub of a rich network of well-marked paths. The town itself is on the railway and is on a bus service to Reading, High Wycombe and Oxford. It has a host of cafés, hotels, pubs and bed and breakfasts, all ready to welcome walkers.

The town’s committee hope to persuade the Great Western Railway, Salters Boats and the local bus companies to cooperate in enabling walkers to come to Henley and to use the services to enjoy linear walks.

There is plenty to see and do in the area, including the National Trust properties of Greys Court and Nuffield Place, the River and Rowing Museum and the Kenton Theatre.

The committee includes people who are active in the Ramblers, the town council, the visitor centre, the Chiltern Society, local businesses and Nordic walking.

Visit the town to enjoy a quiet walk by the river or the bluebell woods of the Chilterns, or venture further onto the Chiltern escarpment for fine views. There is plenty of variety and interest.
Photo: Temple Island